Avocado 'Lula' (Persia americana)
Regular price $99.95 Sale price $94.95Cold-Hardy, Late-Season Avocado with Buttery Flavor and High Oil Content
Lula Avocado is a vigorous, late-season variety that’s beloved by Florida growers for its rich flavor, cold tolerance, and reliable fruit production. Originating in South Florida, ‘Lula’ produces medium to large, pear-shaped fruit with glossy green skin, a small seed, and a creamy, high-oil flesh that’s perfect for guacamole, slicing, and spreading. Unlike many subtropical avocados, Lula is remarkably cold-hardy—withstanding temperatures into the mid-20s (°F)—making it a top choice for Zone 9 growers looking for a resilient, productive tree.
Why Grow Lula Avocado?
- Cold-hardy down to ~24–26°F—great for Zone 9+ growers
- Produces buttery, nutty fruit with high oil content
- Late-season harvest extends the Florida avocado season
- Small seed and thick flesh = more food, less waste
- Vigorous growth and high yield once established
Growing Tips
Plant Lula Avocado in full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid soggy conditions—raised beds or mounds help in areas with poor drainage. Water deeply and regularly while establishing, then reduce to moderate watering. Prune to maintain height and airflow, especially in smaller spaces. Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Lula is a Type A flower, but can produce well on its own—though yields improve with a Type B pollinator nearby (like ‘Brogdon’ or ‘Winter Mexican’). Our mature grafted trees in 3 gallon pots begin fruiting within 1 year.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Persea americana ‘Lula’ |
| Common Names | Lula Avocado |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Origin | Florida, USA (homestead selection) |
| Plant Type | Evergreen fruit tree |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 20–25 ft tall x 15–20 ft wide (can be pruned) |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water Needs | Moderate; low once established |
| Soil | Well-drained, sandy or loamy |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Flower Type | Type A (self-fruitful; better with Type B nearby) |
| USDA Zones | 9b–11 |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Grafted |
| Seasonal Traits | Evergreen |
| Time to Harvest | 2–4 years (grafted); fruit ripens Oct–Feb |
Lula Avocado is a Florida favorite for good reason—it delivers rich, nutty, guacamole-perfect fruit just as most other avocados finish for the season. Its high oil content and late ripening time make it a backyard gem for home growers, chefs, and collectors alike. Whether you're building a food forest or just love a good avocado toast, Lula is one of the best for flavor, yield, and seasonal extension.
| Plant Type: | Tropical/Subtropical Evergreen Fruit Tree |
| Harvest Season: | Summer to Fall, Fall to Winter. Fruiting season varies slightly depending on the variety of Avocado. |
| Mature Size: |
15-30 ft. |
| Soil & Moisture: | Well-draining, rich in organic matter. Don't over water. Only irrigate during dry periods once established. |
| Light Requirements: | Full Sun |
| Self-Fertile: | Yes |
| Growth Rate: |
Medium |
| Zone Hardiness: | Outdoors 9-11 (frost protection until established); Patio/Greenhouse 4+. Cold hardiness for Avocado trees really varies depending on the variety. |
| Propagation: |
Our Avocado trees are grafted and capable to produce within 1 or 2 years |
Avocado Tree Care Guide
Avocado trees (Persea americana) are rewarding and versatile plants to grow, whether you're cultivating them in your garden or as potted plants indoors. Follow these comprehensive guidelines to ensure the successful growth and fruiting of your avocado trees.
1. Selection and Planting:
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Variety: Choose an avocado variety that suits your climate and space.
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Location: Plant avocado trees in a sunny spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ensure protection from strong winds and frost, especially for young trees.
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Soil: Avocado trees thrive in well-draining soil with a pH of 6-7. Amend heavy or clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
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Planting Depth: When planting young avocado trees, match the planting depth to the level they were at in the nursery container.
2. Watering:
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Watering Frequency: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Water young trees more frequently, gradually spacing out as they mature.
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Deep Watering: Provide deep, thorough watering to encourage deep root growth. Avoid frequent shallow watering.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
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Avoid Overwatering: Avocado trees are sensitive to waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Ensure proper drainage and avoid standing water.
3. Fertilization:
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Nutrient Needs: Avocado trees require a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of N-P-K (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) that supports healthy foliage, root development, and fruit production.
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Fertilizing Schedule: Apply a slow-release, granular fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application rates.
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Micronutrients: Avocado trees benefit from micronutrient supplements, particularly iron and zinc. Look for specialized fertilizers containing these elements.
4. Pruning:
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Formative Pruning: For young trees, prune to encourage a sturdy, well-balanced structure. Remove any weak or crossing branches.
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Maintenance Pruning: Mature trees require minimal pruning. Remove dead or diseased branches, and thin out excess growth to improve air circulation.
5. Pest and Disease Management:
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Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your avocado tree for signs of pests or diseases such as aphids, scales, mites, and fungal infections.
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Integrated Pest Management: Employ integrated pest management techniques, using natural predators, organic insecticides, or horticultural oils to control pests.
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Disease Prevention: Practice good sanitation, avoid overwatering, and ensure proper spacing to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
6. Support and Training:
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Staking: Young avocado trees may benefit from staking to protect them from wind damage. Use soft ties to prevent damage to the bark.
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Support for Fruit: As avocados develop, provide support for heavy fruit-laden branches to prevent breakage.
7. Flowering and Fruiting:
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Flower Management: Some avocado trees have a tendency to produce an excess of flowers. Thinning the flowers can lead to larger, higher-quality fruit.
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Pollination: Some avocado varieties are self-pollinating, while others benefit from cross-pollination. Planting multiple trees or encouraging pollinators can enhance fruit set.
8. Harvesting:
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Ripeness Indicators: Avocados are ready to harvest when they slightly soften and detach easily from the tree with a gentle twist.
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Harvesting Technique: Use a gentle upward motion to remove the fruit from the tree, leaving the stem attached.
By providing the right care, attention, and patience, you can enjoy the growth of healthy avocado trees that provide you with delicious and nutritious fruit for years to come.
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
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